Rumbling volcano forces immediate trail closures at popular vacation hot spot
The Kīlauea volcano shows renewed spattering at two vents as USGS scientists monitor for a possible 55th episode of lava fountains at the summit.
TL;DR
- Kīlauea volcano is showing renewed spattering at two vents.
- Over 200 shallow earthquakes were recorded beneath its summit in the past week.
- Halemaʻumaʻu Trail and part of Byron Ledge Trail are temporarily closed due to seismic activity and rockfall risks.
- The volcano remains at an ORANGE aviation color code, indicating heightened activity and potential eruption.
- Scientists cannot forecast when or if the 55th episode of lava fountaining will occur.
- Hazards include gas emissions and small, glassy volcanic fragments causing irritation.
- Visitors are warned to stay away from closed areas and unstable cliff edges.
- Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park saw over 1.8 million visits in 2025, with tourists drawn to eruptive episodes.